Mike Vick's sentenced- Dog Days are not over

Mike Vick's sentence has been released: 23 months in a federal prison, and 3 years probation. Ouch...but it could have been 5 years so he got off a little easier. Supposedly his brother and mother were by his side. His mother held her face in her hands and wept over her sons demise. It must hurt. This man making so much money (the highest as a player in the league) and being such a popular NFL player then to get into so much trouble. Ouch.

Don't mess with them dogs people. Take care of them okay.

Miesha

Story below from The Canadian Press
Suspended NFL star Michael Vick sentenced to 23 months in prison.

RICHMOND, Va. - Michael Vick was sentenced to 23 months in prison Monday for his role in a dogfighting conspiracy that involved gambling and killing pit bulls.

The suspended Atlanta Falcons quarterback could have been sentenced for up to five years by U.S. District Judge Henry E. Hudson. Vick, who turned himself in Nov. 19 in anticipation of his sentence, was wearing a black-and-white striped prison suit.

After Vick apologized to the court and his family, Hudson told him: "You need to apologize to the millions of young people who looked up to you."
"Yes, sir," Vick answered.

Vick acknowledged he used "poor judgment" and added, "I'm willing to deal with the consequences and accept responsibility for my actions."

Federal rules governing time off for good behaviour could reduce Vick's prison stay by about three months, resulting in a summer 2009 release.

The Frank Ski Kids Foundation Presents...

"Are you ready for some football??!!"
Frank Ski during the wine auction at his home

4 years ago Atlanta radio host DJ Frank Ski of v-103 started the Frank Ski Kids Foundation, an organization dedicated to "providing quality programming and financial resources through science, technology, athletics and the arts" for the youth. "Exposing kids to their future" the slogan perfectly sums it up. Annually the foundation has a Youth Bowl tournament followed by a $250 a ticket wine tasting/auction held at The Ski's lovely home in Atlanta. The youth bowl is fun with Hip Hop performances and exciting as you watch the kids duke it out for their chance to hold a football title. The wine tasting hosted by Frank (his wife Tanya is very gracious and hospitable) is both glamorous and elite as many of entertainment's celebrities and high society steps out to support the cause. Last year appearances were made by: 112, Sammy, Jermaine Dupri, Vincent Demock (attorney), Ryan Cameron and many more. Chef Mark Brown blew us all away with his exquisite culinary prowess with dishes ranging from the simple seafoods to the unique pastries. I'll never forget that man, my mouth is still watering.

Check out the cause. The Frank Ski Kids Foundation is an organization really doing something for the kids. The projects that we see unfold before our eyes is proof that the money is put where the mouthpiece is. Earlier this summer The Frank Ski Kids Foundation sent 10 kids for a week long trip to the Galapagos Islands. These "chosen ones" were not randomly drawn out of a hat to go but instead had to use their noggins, a goal of the foundation, for a chance to attend the island. Students between the ages of 13 and 15wrote presidential speeches about the environment and the conservation of energy. The best 20 gave their speeches at the Georgia Aquarium in May's end. Ten went to space camp in Hunstville, AL and ten got to go to the islands with Frank Ski, reps from the Aquarium and Zoo Atlanta. Sponsors for the event included Legacy Homes and REI. Not only was this an incredible opportunity but the best part is all the kids were winners for making the top 20.

This years event Dates:

December 8th @ 10:30 a.m. Youth Bowl playoffs @ Hallford Stadium 3789 Memorial College Drive Decatur, GA 30021

$5 entry $2 parking (kids 5 & under free)

December 15th @ 12:00 p.m. Youth Bowl championship game @ Hallford Stadium 3789 Memorial College Drive Decatur, GA 30021

$5 entry $2 parking (kids 5 & under free)

December 16th @ 3-7:00 p.m. Wine Tasting & Live Auction @ Frank & Tanya Ski's Atlanta residence

$250 minimum donation/entry. Legacy Homes is a return sponsor.

I will be covering these events this year so this time i'm not only a spectator and supporter but a reporter. I look forward to helping to spread the good news in the community of these wonderful events.

To donate, attend the events or simply learn more about the foundation log onto http://www.frankskikids.org/ or contact Cherry Banez (CherryPublicity@gmail.com) the extremely efficient publicist for the events.

Miesha

Diamonds are a Boi's best friend!

The man of the night with the shoe of the century!
Diamond Details
Ernel Dawkins (of Laced Up), Candy of Peach Candy and Big Boi
Peach Candy (Candy and the original Georgia Peach, Rasheeda)

Who says diamonds are just for girls? Big Boi's like to wear white ice too or champagne diamond ice in this matter!

Outkast member, Antwan "Big Boi" Patton known for his "So Fresh and So Clean" fashion flair was honored last week for an event called, Solitaire Kicks, a business launch for Prriya and Chintans Couture boutique on Peachtree Rd. where the event was held. Prriya and Chintans Couture is now offering custom iced out sneakers exclusively designed by the boutique. The $50,000, 13 karate, Nike So Cal shoe was presented to Big Boi by Laced Up (got to be one of the coolest looking sneaker stores in Atlanta!) owner and Big Boi's long time friend Ernel Dawkins and P&C Couture boutique owner Rita Patel. Oooh weee, $50k worth of diamond bling...now that's some haute footwork worth checking! It pays to be a celeb (they always get fly free stuff) and have friends in the business.

Yes Big Boi is known for fashion but before he was heralded by being a promoter of unique style he was first and is still a rapper turn smart investor. So the question is when is the dynamic duo that is Outkast (my FAVE rap group of all time...) going to release another bleepin album! We are losing grip of the soundtrack to 2006's Idlewild and the double disked Speaker Boxx/The Love Below released in 2003. Well Big Boi told all the guests at the event that at the "Top of 2008" their album would be released! Woooooooooh! Okay I can now breathe a sigh of relief. Hip Hop is NOT dead after all.

Proceeds from the diamond studded event went to Big Boi's Big Kidz Foundation, founded in 2006 with a dedication to education and an exposure to culture for children.

Appearance made by:
Peach Candy (Rasheeda Atlanta Rapper & Candy of Ex R&B Group Xscape) They both looked great and were very pleasant.

Thank you to Nicole Garner and team of The Garner Circle PR for the invitation to the posh event! When they are on the scene business is taken care of.

An Underground King'Z last day

Saying goodnight to Pimp C of UGK

As the entertainment world and rap enthusiasts already know, southern rapper Pimp C of UGK was found dead yesterday in his LA hotel room on the Sunset Strip. I wrote about this yesterday but I wanted to share some more information about the infamous Underground King. Pimp C or Chad Butler was in LA for a concert that he'd done with rapper Too Short the Saturday before. The Houston rapper was supposed to check out of his hotel on Monday but when his family didn't hear from him they alerted the hotel. Chad must have been close to his family and talked to them on a regular basis for them to be immediately concerned. That's when a 911 call was made on Tuesday and Pimp C was found in his bed, fully clothed but not alive. At this time they are saying that he seems to have died of natural causes...no drugs or foul play seems to be involved but an autopsy will determine that for sure. I felt the need to share that there was no drugs or foul play SEEMINGLY (again more details will be revealed of cause of death later) involved in his death at this time because I know that people are aware of the wilder lifestyle that some celebrities and BIG money makers seem to live so can quickly assume an OD when a rapper or rock star is found suddenly dead. Also in a world where crime is partial to no one, especially with the recent death of Washington Redskins safety Sean Taylor, it's quick to jump to the conclusion that another one of us got snuffed by another one of us. All that being said it does not take away from the fact that Pimp C is not here to speak up for himself one last time, nor that his young son, Chad, Jr. won't get to hug his daddy. He is still gone and there is no comfort in that for his family, friends, and fans.

Pimp C had been locked up and back again a couple of times but was turning things around. Many of you may not know that Pimp C had big plans for 2008. He was starting a career as a solo artist with Jive Records. A distraught 8 Ball called into Atlanta radio's V103 last night to speak with Greg Street during the Pimp C/UGK (the other member of the group is Bun B) musicathon (it was awesome! musically these guys (UGK) really do meet their moniker and then some.) and shared with listeners that Pimp C had plans to start a non-profit and give back to the community as well. One of the first A&R reps for Cash Money Records, Pimp C performed with many artists like: OutKast, Too Short, E40, 8 Ball & MJG, T.I., etc. He also was a ghost writer, and you know that's where the money is REALLY at. Chad Butler was a legend without enough merit. I guess that's the effects of being underground.

This years. "International Players Anthem", which one a BET Hip Hop Award this year, was fairly one of the bigger more mainstream hits from UGK. If you've seen the video Chad is the one in the white fur coat, pimpin' it out! I love that song, it really is international. One of the other bigger songs was, "Big Pimpin'" with Jay-Z back in 2000. Or you may remember "Pocket Full of Stones" from their younger years. Pimp C was only 33 when he passed and I'm sure many left with unsaid goodbyes in their mouths.

Life is not promised day to day for each individual, but still it lives even after one goes. I pray that we as people can live our lives the time that we have here in love and peace. You know what that means for you. If there is drama you don't need to cause, don't start none won't be none. Most importantly treat those you say you love like you REALLY love them, so many need to remember this, myself included, I know I'm not preaching to the choir. Read, really read 1 Corinthians 13 for a true example of L O V E. Love is not only about emotion but action, sacrifice and forgiveness. Okay i'm not here to preach, just to share. I myself have so much to learn! So take what you can from it or other positive sources.

Once again I send out well wishes and prayers for Pimp C's family, friends and partners in the business.

TI is on the cover of RAP-UP Magazine (interview from his home)

News and photos from SandraRose.com

RAP-UP magazine was recently given exclusive access to T.I.'s luxury digs in Jonesboro for an in-depth interview. The magazine features shots of T.I. looking fit and well-nourished at home. T.I. was arrested on October 13 and charged with multiple weapons violations. A judge released T.I. on bond with strict conditions which include home confinement and 24/7 monitoring.

T.I. shares how he maintains his fast-paced lifestyle, his plans to marry his girlfriend Tiny, staying out of trouble, his friendship with Suge Knight and Jay-Z, and retiring from rap.

"It's definitely not the look I'm going for. I'm working diligently, daily, to try to reform, and rectify these things. But until I do, I need everybody to bare with me. If they can't bare with me one way, they gonna have to bare with me another."
The magazine features two covers for its December/January '08 issue. The other cover is Nicole Scherzinger.

End news

I just got one thing to say..."Free TIP!" Oh and one more thing, i hope he really does marry Tiny. That girl has been down down yes DOWN for him since FOREVER.

Miesha

Word on the street...Lauren London is ENGAGED to Lil Wayne

Are these two a match made in Hollywood Heaven??

ATL and This Christmas cutie, Lauren London is rumored to be engaged to the rapper who's put out more tracks and calabo's this year than Jay-Z, Kanye and Yung Joc combined, Lil Wayne.

I don't know if this is true but word on the street is that they have been on and off for the last two years...mostly off it seems since we don't ever see them together, he was with Karrine Steffens for a minute, and engaged to on and off love, rapper Trina for quite some time. Trina was even carrying his baby at one point.

Here is a recent excerpt from Complex Magazine where Wayne talks about...Marriage...hmmm...:

C: Do you think you will ever settle down with one woman?
LIL WAYNE: I think they don't commit to a nigga, they committed to a myth. I'll be on the road two weeks straight, the whole time I'm telling them, "oh I'm coming home, oh I love you blah, blah, blah" soon as I get there, I done pulled in about seven that evening, at 10 I'm going straight to the studio. Ain't no woman want to get into that. I got marriage in the future, though. I just don't talk too much about it, because I ain't sure yet, that's the example of saying I'm engaged and nothing happened and I ain't do that, but marriage in the future, hopefully. You know the person when you just ain't ask it yet, [laughs] I ain't ask her yet but...
C: Does she know who she is?
LIL WAYNE: Mmm-hmm. I was thinking hard, the [BET] Awards are tomorrow, so I had the ring-I don't have it with me, I was trying to get it for tomorrow, but it's a problem, f**k y'all up.
C: You were going to propose on stage?
LIL WAYNE: I was going to hopefully win the award, I was going to do it like this: if I had that ring I'm not going to do it on the reg, I'm only going to do it if I win the award. If I win the award then I'm supposed to get married, but no I didn't get the ring from them so I'm not going to do it. She'll be there tomorrow, though.
C: What scares you?
LIL WAYNE: Never having a wife, a not-leaving wife.

Lauren is on the rise, quickly becoming a favorite amongst dudes with eyes (most men in the world) and Weezy continues to rise (he aint so hot looking but he's got some fly tats, great energy and raw passion) however I just don't think this will be a lasting union. I'm not just saying that cuz i "love" Weezy...naw...that love affair started in 2005 and ended around summer of this year...i'm done. So if this is true, no matter what I see, i hope it will be a healthy relationship...that boy is WILD. But hey, she might be too. We don't know that much about London yet...I guess we'll see. She's in Black Hollywood so they'll dissect her soon enough.

Miesha

The passing of an "International Player"

Pimp C (Chad Butler), one half of the part underground part mainstream rap duo, UGK was found dead today hotel room bed. A 911 call lead authorities to the 6th floor of the Mondrian Hotel in Hollywood, CA. At this time all the details have not been released as to how he died. He was only 33 years old.

Popular mainstream music by UGK, The Underground Kingz:
Big Pimpin' (2000, with Jay-Z)
International Player's Anthem (2007, with OutKast)

Our sympathies go out to Chad's family, Bun B (Bernard Freeman of UGK) and other friends. This is a hard hit for the industry...rarely expected.

Sambuca, Hit AND Miss- Restaurant review

Outdoor the artistic Sambuca, complete with complimentary valet parking
The lovely stage and some of the seating inside Sambuca

Sambuca

3102 Piedmont Rd. NE

Atlanta, GA 30305

404-237-5299

http://www.sambucarestaurant.com/

On a luke warm November night I psyched myself up for an evening of food and live jazz or maybe live jazz and food. I stepped into the classy Atlanta location of Sambuca (there are several including one in Houston, TX). As long as the sultry restaurant had been on the scene, I had never been and realized that several others hadn't either so I truly looked forward to matching the raved name with a unique experience.

I came, i saw, i listened, i grooved, i ate. The verdict?...S'aight man. Well let me break it down for you:

Ambiance: classy, great colors, dim and romantic atmosphere, live jazz with talented singers and bands, lots of space even for a bigger group set-up
Staff: stuffy & stiff but professional
Cool!: the band gives personal birthday shout outs, on Sunday evening's there is no cover charge or seating wait, also Sunday night features a half price wine special (log onto the website to see all weekday specials)
Food: s'ok...pricey...decent but coulda been better for the price.
Losers: The seafood martini (cocktail shrimp and crab stuffed into a martin glass with juices) was not worth its weight in gold, and the rhythm and blue's burger (angus beef stuffed with blue cheese crumbles) was reminiscent of yo momma's greasy house burgers that you used to have to eat when you were 7 years old. I'm not saying that mom's meat was bad but what I am saying is that i didn't come there for that and pay for hard bread, lettuce and a fat grease burger...
Bad for business: the food came out...GASP almost cold!
What I noticed: No one (at our table of 10) was really excited about their meals. It was more of a Hem and Haw as people mechanically ate and mused over the food instead of exciting rantings over how good the dishes were.
However you can try this: chessy potatoes au gratin, bourbon sweet potatoes, the creme brulee
Take Note: the menu does claim that in order to sit in the restaurant you MUST order and further more there is a $15 minimum. In the case of our party most followed and surpassed that disclaimer "rule" but some didn't and while they did order only ate dessert. All deserts are to the tune of $6-$8 dollars.
SamBOO BOO!: The staff neglected to write down our reservation so when we arrived they were not expecting us. This would have been a disaster on a Friday or Saturday night. Make sure when you call (if you call) that they take down everything and repeat it back to you.
That Night: Ah the whole evening ended up being accursed for me anyhow (long dumb story so I'll spare you) so the food being un-Wowing shouldn't have really daunted me but it did. Now i'm not blaming the food for my punk evening or the evening on the blasted food but since the evening was a MISS at least the food being magnificent (especially with the price) could have made the night salvageable or better. But alas to no avail it did not. I coulda had a V8. Or rathered it. No...I take that back I don't like that stuff but I would have been happier with a Burger King Whopper: you get what you pay for and it tastes like nice fast food.

If you are looking to be entertained with fantastic mood music, sit in a dark spot with your sweetie, be lulled to your romantic place by red and purple lights then go to Sambuca! You will be impressed. If you want to accompany that feeling and experience by average food then still go. But if you are looking for the total package of incredible environment matched with superb food (for that high price) then do not hit GO. Instead come to Sambuca for a sexy night out for drinks and dessert, it will still run up your tab. But get your main meals down the street at several of the other fine dining houses that line the popular Piedmont Rd.

Miesha

Reese Witherspoon is currently the highest paid actress

Shame on Ryan Phillippe for stepping away from this love! Oscar winning (Walk the Line) Reese Witherspoon banks $15 to $20++ million for films. She beats the previous Hollywood Highest Paid Actress title owner Julia Roberts who made $24 million for Mona Lisa Smile. I think Mona Lisa stopped smiling as it seems that Roberts is more set into raising her family in peace for the time being. I'm sure she has enough money to last her, Danny, Lil twins Hazel & Phinnaeus, and baby Henry Daniel for quite the time. No worries.

But yeah for Reese, American Movie's new sweetheart! What I love about Reese is that over the years she's proved herself with hard work, charm and talent. She didn't show up for one movie and win hearts and awards off the bat but had to work in several films in order to really get recognition. Many didn't see her rise to fame coming. After the charming and funny Legally Blonde (recently made into a musical) her named started to surface more. Soon she overshadowed then hottie husband Ryan Phillippe (Actor Ethan Hawke once said that it's difficult to be in a Hollywood relationship and be happy for your partner when you are not getting any work- in regards to then wife Uma Thurman's career taking off while he had no work.) and soared on the wings of her own stardom snagging an Oscar at the fairly young age of 29. She's cute, fashionable, a mom and can act. In Hollywood she's got it made. However personally we are not sure how she fares with the recent divorce and undoubtedly unwanted attention surrounding it and her romantic life in general.

On a personal and professional level Witherspoon seems to carry herself with poise, relateabilty and purpose. Film goers have high hopes for the petite fire house of an actress. Congrats to her!

Reese is followed by the following actresses in the money category:

Angelina Jolie- $15 million-$20 million (only $8 million for Beowulf)
Cameron Diaz- $15+ million
Nicole Kidman- $10 million-$15 million
Renee Zellweger- 10 million-$15 million
Sandra Bullock- $10 million-$15 million
Julia Roberts-10 million-$15 million (more for Mona Lisa Smiles)
Drew Barrymore - $10 million-$12 million
Jodie Foster- $10 million-$12 million
Halle Berry- $10 million

Miesha

Bilal has never left

If you subscribe to this blog via email or feed then you may not be able to view the above video of the Sol Fusion 5 year anniversary party featuring Bilal. If troubles log onto www.FindEntertainmentNow.blogspot.com to view. Thank you!

J Carter, Joi & man of the evening, Bilal

Kenny Burns, Bilal & Lachelle Morris of Honey Magazine Beehive Diaries, Joia Style Studio & Agency 3Sixteen interviewing the star

I have NEVER seen a man own a stage like Bilal Sayeed Oliver. The Philadelphia born soul singer that stole the hearts of music lovers in 2001 with his mellow high low notes continues to bring fans to their feet 6 years later!

I arrived with eyes wide open and feet high stepping to a crowd lined down West Peachtree Street being entertained by the base of a LIVE marching band all in wait of the the $25 concert! If this was the pumped up prelude to the show I wondered with excitement what the actual concert would be like! I then knew I would not leave disappointed. Upon nearing the door I was whisked safely inside to set-up for the evening. Once again the Garner Circle PR team (Nicole and Kevin) did an AMAZING job facilitating the event!

Bilal gets ready for his grand event. He hadn't performed in Atlanta, GA for over 5 years so this was "The Big One". Sol Fusion (they totally rock all of their parties out by bringing funky true music lovers together) run by Kenny Burns and J Carter set up their 5 year anniversary party at Center Stage the eve of Thanksgiving with DJ DNice, (who couldn't make it due to a family emergency), Rockport shoes sponsor (led that evening by Michael Barclay of Alloy Access) giving away 250 pairs of free HOT Rockports (endorsed by celebs like Yung Joc), and beloved musical guru for the evening...Bilal. They couldn't have chosen a better performer for the party/concert!

Bilal took the stage and turned it into his musical playground. With his singing, jumping, banging, and pseudo "love-making", he owned the audience and the night for his 2 hour set. He didn't have his dreads to swing any-longer as he performed but they were not needed for effect. His freshly cut do actually added to his cool skater meets funk meets soul singer appearance. He took control and topped everyone's expectations. The show he gave was worth double PLUS the ticket price. Women wanted to be with him and men had to give him respect and surround the stage. Yes he even had the fellas singing and obeying as if enchanted or led by a cult. If you didn't know Bilal before the night started...You knew him after it was over and knew he wasn't a joke.

Intoxicating music filled the air and the aroma from sheer energy and know how was emptied from his small frame as B belted out songs of old and some of new. His presence was giant for a man little over 5 feet. His eccentric and peculiar electricity intrigued you just enough to want to know more.

Other celeb soul singing divas took turns showing some love and sang a few notes as guests of Bilal for the evening. Music's past: Joi, Algebra and Trina Broussard did music justice that night speaking in song.

So where has he been? Why has B been gone so long if he's so good? I got a chance to get these questions answered in the twilight of that evening. Of course it is common knowledge that the soul prince was putting out a much awaited follow-up album to his 2001 debut "1st Born Second" in 2006 but his songs were leaked on the Internet. The damn Internet is a blessing and a curse for artists these days. The leak of course proved to be fatal for any type of album sales that may have come from his proposed album so the deal was dropped and true fans were left without product of word.

Fast forward one year and Bilal tells me that he hasn't put out another album yet because of "Political and in dusty shi*" but that we could expect an album in 2008! Whew so there's hope!

I've done the best in my words to describe the engrossing musical phenom that took place that evening but seeing is better for believing. I can tell you this last thing: If you don't know Bilal get to know him. His album is due out 2008. If you know Bilal...then you KNOW Bilal and can be assured that this truly talented and passionate man has never left.

Miesha

Score for Tony "Romeo" Romo!

Tom Brady (QB for the New England Patriots) is dating highest paid super model Gisele so I guess Tony Romo had to go one up on him and date a cuter star. Tony Romo, the QB for the Dallas Cowboys is dating blond singer turned reality dream turn nightmare reality Jessica Simpson. And I gotta tell you Jessica IS WAY cuter then that dog-on Giselle and with less make-up too. Come on people...yes she is a Vic Secret model and yes has a banging body BUT her mug....eeeeeh no.

Tony Romo likes girlies in the public spot light. He has also been linked to Carrie Underwood and Sophia Bush, both total babes! He seems to go for that super cute, innocent seeming type and then after he's done whatever he does he's out! However I have a feeling this thing with J. Simpson will last some time. Not only did she take him home for Thanksgiving to meet Papa Joe Simpson, but Jessica is not a fly by night celebrity and has a real resume so i think this may impress good ol Romeo Romo for a lil bit longer.

By the way...did you know that Scrubs star, Donald Faison (black dude from Clueless...."i mean like totally a barney DUH!") is dating Jessica Simpson's bff/personal assistant (the blond friend from the reality show) Cacee Cobb??? Hmmmmm!!!! Apparently the 4, Romo, Simpson, Faison and Cobb have hung out together. Cacee seems to like Romo for Jessie. I hope her friend knows what's really up. Shoot almost anything is better than leach Nick Lachey.

Good Luck!

Miesha

Is the writers' march over? Hollywood Studios make an offer to striking writers.

Ugly Betty members join writers strike

Jack Black strikes back for the writers!

Is the writers' march over? Hollywood Studios make an offer to striking writers.

The strike has been in full affect for some time now...it seems finally waves are being made. Actors like Ben Stiller and the Desperate Housewives cast and writers have united together in this front. What will be the outcome?

miesha

Story below from the AP Press
Hollywood studios presented a new contract offer to striking film and TV writers that the studios said would

pay writers millions of dollars extra for shows created for the Internet. But writers said some of the proposals, announced Thursday, amounted to rollbacks and said studios should adopt their counteroffer.

The Writers Guild of America said it asked for a recess in the talks until Tuesday to consider its options, but it called on members to continue picketing Friday and Monday.

The producers said the new offer, dubbed the New Economic Partnership, included payments for work shown on the Internet, the key sticking points in the talks.

"The entire value of the New Economic Partnership will deliver more than $130 million in additional compensation above and beyond the more than $1.3 billion writers already receive each year," the statement from the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers said.

The $130 million sum was over the life of the proposed three-year deal, producers said. No further details of the terms were released since both sides imposed a media blackout Monday.
The guild countered with a lengthier response, saying the producers' proposal dealt only with advertising-supported programs streamed for free and jurisdiction over shows created for the Web.

The writers said their plan, presented Thursday, would cost producers $151 million over three years.

"That's a little over a 3 percent increase in writer earnings each year, while company revenues are projected to grow at a rate of 10 percent," the statement said. "We are falling behind."

David Kidd, a screenwriter, said he was hopeful, but not overly optimistic, about what he described as an apparent "sweet offer" from producers.

"I don't know what sweet is until I taste it," Kidd said. "Nobody wants to go in and accept a bad offer."

Mourning the death of young football strength, Sean Taylor

He was strong, attractive, young, a new dad (to daughter 18 month old Jackie), changing his life and on top of his game. It seems like his life was left unfinished as it was selfishly taken away from him for reasons unknown. Until more sense can be made of this tragedy we wonder as we mourn the death of Sean Taylor of the Washington Redskins. We bask in sad shades of darkness to the tune of "what else would he have accomplished??" if given more than the short 24 years he had to prove on this earth in the aftermath of this sudden tragedy.

The football safety passed in the hospital on Tuesday November 27th a day after he and his girlfriend Jackie Garcia's Miami Florida home was broken into. The couple heard loud noises, Taylor went for a Machete he keeps for protection, the bedroom door was broken down, and Sean (no one else) was shot at a couple of times. One of the shots proved to be fatal. The bullet damaged the femoral artery in Taylor's leg, causing significant blood loss. Despite Taylor squeezing the hand of a nurse on staff, making it seem like he was going to possibly be fine, he didn't make it through.

The shooter was bold and careless. This intruder and killer didn't take a thing. Strangely there was an earlier invasion of Sean's home 8 days prior. Draws were rummaged through but again nothing was taken. Yet there was a small token left on the bed; a kitchen knife. Maybe a premonition or a warning.

It seems that a football contract is hazardous to your health but not just while on the playing field. This year ESPN's Outside the Lines (I enjoy this show) hosted a show with a topic on eventual body damage done to football players due to years of physical blows to the body, particularly the brain area where loss of motor skills and depression are a sad outcome from the head trauma. But it seems in the past few years the NFL has been plagued with these sudden death, unexpected tragic killings of players who were good guys, not thugs, who were simply living their normal lives, trying to stop a fight or in the wrong place at the wrong time (Darrent Williams on New Years). It is very real and very rough. Our prayers go out to the Taylor family.

miesha

Jennifer Love Hewitt, the sexy girl/woman next door is getting married!

I purposely chose this candidly BAD, "look at us lovers classically romping in the water" picture....eheheee. I'm bad.
Look she aint a bad looking chick in the raw AT ALL BUT I'm just saying...makeup is gooooowd!

It's confirmed. To those of you who still hold on to cult hit, yet short lived shows like, My So Called Life and Arrested Development, your favorite girl/woman party of fiver from the classic show Party of Five (dang i feel like i already said that when i said "party of fiver" but whatever...), actress Jennifer Love Hewitt is engaged to be married to her boyfriend, Scottish actor Ross McCall. Woo hoo Jenny Love! I'm happy for her...even tho her beau has this, "I'm you uncle" vibe look to him, so what whatever. This girl has been through some major Holly Woodies if ya know what I mean (remember her public fling with the hot Carson Daly, her tabloid romance with John Mayer...cuz her "body is a wonderland" or her romp with the original PUNK Wilmer Valderrama??? Ooooh juicy! And i could try go on but I'm tired right now.)! McCall may be a keeper. His first name is Ross and in the popular ex sitcom Friends the character Ross was a good guy and Jennifer Anniston played Rachel who loved Ross and Ross loved her right and Jennifer Love Hewitt's first name is Jennifer so therefore it's a sign that this will work! Yes a mind is a terrible thing to waste and yes I am a genius, thanks.

The Ghost Whisperer must have whispered the sweetest of nothings into her new fiance's ears loud enough for the past two years to make him so ready to pop the question. Or like everyone else in the plastic town of tinsel...maybe he's still obsessed with how a girl with such a small frame (actually her frame is not even that small these days. she's actually got a very real womanly figure...she's not super skinny starvation body barbie. amen!) can have such a large rack...of lamb that is. Okay yes I am tired. But anyway congrats J Love...not to be confused with J Low. I hope this works out for yall. Jennys seem to always get all the love in Hollywood (except for Jennifer Anniston in real life and i like her so much, dang-it Brad!) anyway so she'll be fine people. Oh and for that matter so will Jennifer Anniston...so take that Brangelina!

Snoop Daddy Don't!

Tell me why Snoop Dogg has a new reality show on E! called, Snoop Dogg's Father Hood. The slogan is, "this aint the Cosby's". Ha haaaaaa! This should be funny yall. He's a super smooth dude, pretty cool,a rap legend with a truly unique flow and he could rival comedian Katt Williams for the male with the sexiest hair in hip hop "award" BUT the man kinda makes me sick raising young kids and living a wild, sexually charged life style. Time to settle down Snoop...c'mon. AnywayZ...watch it on E! debuting December 9th this year.

miesha

Usher is a daddy!!!

Usher Raymond & Tameka Foster had their baby boy, Usher Raymond V (Usher told E! News earlier this year that the couple had planned to name their child after him) around 9:59 p.m. in Atlanta, GA on Monday night! The little Usher weighed 7lbs 9oz. Mother and son are both fine.

Usher called to speak directly to Ryan Cameron on V103 radio yesterday to give him & Atlanta the news.
"I'm officially in the club," said an emotional Usher who told Ryan to say, "hey daddy," when he's out in the clubs.

Usher told Ryan he helped with the delivery. "I did it all, I did what I had to do," he said.

“We are so happy and proud of our beautiful son,” the couple said in a statement. “What a blessing!”

Reportedly Tameka and baby will be returning home today.

Wow this guy has really grown up! Go Usher and Tameka...God bless!

miesha

Thanksgiving Miracles- T.I., Ryan Cameron, JD, and Polo Da Don pull it together!

The Atlanta boys in black did it big this year for the Holiday!

Last week pre-Thanksgiving T.I. and Ryan Cameron of V103 radio worked together to help Hosea Feed the Homeless keep their giving going by raising over $166 thousand dollars. The organization had just lost a $150k supporter this year so the popular radio personality & T.I. along with celebrity friends like JD brought in the giving spirit in just a few hours! Wow! I'm so impressed and glad in my heart.

In addition the Grand Hustle family donated 400 turkeys. Not to be outdone...Polo Da Don did the same the day before the holiday (400 turkey giveaway on Cascade in Atlanta) and added one up...anyone who lived in Zone 4 got their rent paid...for a year! I don't think this was in direct competition of each other in no means, but a friendly out giving doesn't hurt those who receive I say.

Great news...great job Atlanta. I would love to see things like this happen all year round.

miesha

Linda Hogan calls it quits- Hogan Divorce

"We are family...i mean...were family...i mean...shucks who knows!!"

Apparently the news from a Florida reporter is that Linda Bollea (real last name) Hogan filed for divorce from Terry Bollea Hogan last Friday. According to the reporter the wrestler had no clue that she was filing for divorce.

"Thank you for the great information," Hulk told the reporter.

"My wife has been in California for about three weeks. ... Holy smokes," Bollea told the newspaper after he allegedly hung up on him first then called him right back. "Wow, you just knocked the bottom out of me."

If this is a fact and their problems are such that can be worked out (whatever they may be at this time) I hope they labor at it. Both of them. But how much of this is true we don't know yet. However the blondest family on television, the Hogans do have a very public "reality" (HELLO!) show on VH1 which in one recent episode last season they chronicled the issues in the long time couple's relationship. Linda wanted to get a divorce from Terry so they showed the couple going to counseling and trying to work on their relationship. In the end they said.."Lets stay together" in Lyfe Jennings style. Troubles in any relationship is part of life.

These are my personal observations:

Linda seems a little uptight, dizzy, delusional, and worrisome (as many mothers are) yet very committed to her family.

Terry seems over-protective (as some dads surely are), chauvinistic, authoritative, super controlling, but very supportive of his family.

Both selfish and they can both improve their skills in listening. But it's difficult for an unmarried person to give advice to ones that are. The same as people with no kids telling you how to raise your own brood. Nada. But that doesn't mean that those outsiders with less experience can't see the truth that the involved may be blind to and even offer a little advice.

But truthfully no one knows what truly goes on behind anyone's closed doors...even with a reality show who can say what the real deal is with anybody? Many people thought Jessica Simpson and Nick Lachey were gonna last forever (they had such a great love story and a popular reality show to go with it) but the world sees how that ended. And actually I never liked Nick for Jess anyway and while the rest of the world was ooohing and ahhhhing about their "love" I saw differently. Yes I know I know...I don't know the guy but from what I saw...he didn't truly love Jess and was very selfish, greedy and Jess was way to spoiled, immature and slightly disillusioned about marriage.

I do love reality TV but i have a feeling that it is not the best for relationships or families. They tend to highlight character flaws and bring judgments into your life that many times you really can do without. I'd like to get my 15 minutes of fame another way please.

miesha

The 12 Centennial Park, Atlanta, GA- Hotel Review

12 Centennial Park
400 West Peachtree
Atlanta, Georgia 30308
Phone: 404.961.8888
Fax: 404.961.8889
http://www.twelvecentennialpark.com/

I expected alot. I am a woman of high expectations especially if you build me up to think that I am going to be pleasantly surprised. So when I knew that I would be staying in a 2 room suite at the 12 Hotel/Condo Centennial in Atlanta for a girlfriend's 30th birthday celebration I was psyched.

I had been to this hotel/condo 3 weeks before for an interview with an actor from a funny and popular local TV show that lives in one of the condos. The condos are on one side and the hotel on another. So the only place I'd seen was the condo, hotel lobby and the restaurant called Room. I had dinner there with my crew after the interview.
We arrived, met our friend and exchanged giggles and greetings as we headed up to our party quarters for our semi-weekend of fun. The 8 of us (and oh yall we were oh so cute!) had dinner plans, club plans, just chilling in the room plans and a surprise 30 minute massage (compliments of the birthday girl...yes she is da bomb yall and it was all her treat. The massage contact info will be below...he was magnificent!) for all of her friends that came to celebrate her special day.

As soon as I walked in I dropped my bags and knew I was home. I didn't feel like it was too prissy where I could not relax with my toes out, yet it was beautiful enough to where I didn't want to eat cookies (thanks to Blessing for baking them for us!!) in the bed.

The two room suite was spacious and colorful but in a muted way. You know warm browns, bright and silky blues. The beds were dressed in all their party splendor in the finest of linens and the televisions were on playing this new world wordless type music as it flashed psychedelic mind trippy images across its monitor.

Need to check your email? There is a desk smartly pressed against the wall with a computer. High speed baby.
And yes it was very roomy. We had our massage man, Nathan come in with his table and equipment Sunday morning before check out and there was still enough room for people to walk around the living quarters. Additionally the bedrooms and bathrooms were big and not over crowded. In fact the hotel is nicer than the condos. I'd rather buy a hotel suite instead!
Highlights-
*HUGE and well decorated suite! I could totally live there. And it should have that effect for $350 a night!
*We were on the 11th floor and the view was amazing! Not breathtaking but yes amazing!
*Great security! If your purse gets stolen It's gotta be an illusion because you have to have a card to access the floors. At any time you are not able to just push any button on the elevator to enter another floor besides your own.
*Fabulous gym on the 7th floor, complete with state of the art treadmills, yoga mats, yoga balls (and lots of space to do it), mirrors, music and televisions that lead out to a spectacular outdoor pool and deck. There is a grille that surrounds the pool area so it would be a perfect spot for friends to gather for an awesome pool party in the summer.
*3 large flat screen TVs, cable and DVD player complete in the two room suite.
Low-lights-
*Room service tends to take a little longer to arrive when requested. Plus the food they have is too high priced and not enough for what you are paying. One of my friends ordered a steak salad and I promise it came with like 3 pieces of lettuce...she payed $16 bucks!
*The staff is very stoic.
*$22 dollars to park A DAY in the hotel parking garage! I suggest you find alternate parking.
*If you are a little ghetto...they will be watching you...not in a good way either. I'm not speaking about me being ghetto though...uhhhh...it's this friend I know.

Treats-
*The hotel has an upscale restaurant called, ROOM and I've got to say they've got the best sushi and rolls on that side of Midtown Atlanta. Oh and lots of the sushi is a great price.
*The hotel suites come stocked with several robes that you can use during your stay.
*The bathrooms are magnificent. The showers are large, glass and look like a dream. If you are planning a honeymoon may i suggest this hotel just for the boom boom room effect that the bathrooms bring to the suite. Seriously you don't even want to go to the restroom in these. But you do...get over that quickly.

Bummer-
*You can't keep the robes. Even though you pay $$$$$$$$$ to stay in the high faluten suite...the robe is NOT a souvenir.
*They don't do anything special for birthdays! It was my friend's 30th bday extravaganza and with the hotels full knowledge they simply left a thank you for staying hotel card, hope you have a nice bday deal. Nothing else.
*The shower water ranges between luke warm and cold (not to mention the water pressure was mediocre). It never really got hot and the staff claimed there was nothing they could do about it. Sad.
*There are not many restaurants in close proximity or walking distance. The ones that are near are pricey and sometimes a girl just wants a damn $8 dollar burger and fries not $25 roast duck...okay! So yes stock the fridge if you want to save a little green...but hey that's more reason to stay in for the night. p.s. DON'T get delivery from the Papa John's on State Street damn-it! They jacked up our order and then never showed up!

On the Average-
*The furniture in the room like lots of classy hotels was nice, very nice in fact but not so different than many of the nice hotels in Metro Atlanta. Now if you want furniture and decor that is out of this world...try the W hotel in Dunwoody. That lobby is a dream.

In a word...WONDERFUL. That is how I would describe my stay at the 12 Hotel/Condo Atlanta. I had a grand time and seeing that I was with incredible friends it made my stay that much sweeter. There is another 12 Hotel/Condo in Atlantic station but I've heard terrible things about it like the hallways smell, it's dirty, the staff is rude. Even the managers at the Atlantic Station 12 suggest that people come to the Centennial Park 12 if they'd like a proper stay. I'm glad I stayed in the right one or my review may have been very different.

Shout out again to master therapist Nathan at Untouchable Massage. Now don't go stalking him ladies...here is his info as I promised:
Untouchable Massage Mobile Space Services
Nathan Phillips (15+ years experience)
P.O. Box 2011
Tucker, GA 30084
404-342-6791
770-912-4500
untochablemassage@yahoo.com

miesha

Ne-Yo is dropped from the Kells tour!

Ne-Yo spreading some of his Sexy Love.

Is Kelly jelly of Ne-Yo?

Did Ne-Yo's camp really just drop the ball on him signing a contract so he could keep performing with Kells? And if that is the case why not simply get him to sign and fulfill his contractual duties which Ne-Yo would have willing done because he was excited about the tour and expressed confusion to why he got dropped so suddenly!!!

"I don't understand their actions because I was rehearsing, doing media, promoting the tour, and performing, said Ne-Yo. In my opinion, I was doing everything possible to make the tour a success. I love being on stage in front of fans because of the immediate feedback you get. You know right away if they are feeling you; and they were really feeling our show."

And you know what this tour will suffer some in my opinion without Ne-Yo. He's a phenomenal artist!!! I'm so embarrassed of R Kelly cuz he's from my dog on home town...now he's making the Windy City look bad. MAAAAAAAAAN!!!

Anyway to add gasoline to the smoke, in an interview yesterday between Big Tigger and Ne-Yo, the million dollar writer stated that he didn't want any beef with the show Headliner (R Kelly) but showed some obvious annoyance when Ne-Yo told Tigger "...as a person, I might have lost a little respect for him." That "him" is of course the Pied Piper himself...RRRRRRRah Kelly. Mmmm mmm MMMMM!
"We dealt with it for as long as we could," said Ne-Yo, "all the silly stuff - can't nobody be in the hallway when he walk through."

Ne-Yo said Kelly took over every last dressing room (7) on the first stop of the tour which left no dressing rooms for Ne-Yo or his dancers. Ne-Yo also said his HOT reviews may have shook Kells up a bit.

This tour has been surrounded by lots of drama...besides R Kelly acting up we also had Keyshia Cole throwing a damn tantrum. Ne-Yo discussed his confusion at Keyshia Cole's 5,4,3,2,1...MELTDOWN in Columbus, Georgia when she refused to go on before Ne-Yo. He said he would love to talk to Keyshia to see what the issue was.

Hmmm...so it looks like some of this stuff we see, hear and speculate about these SILLY celebrities is TRUE!! They are human just like us but because they have money some of them wanna show they booties and they think it's just fine. Whatever...booooooooo for the celeb snobs out there...boooooooooooooooooo to yous!!!!

miesha